The shame has lived in me for so long that I barely notice it anymore until Adelaide gives an order.

She arrived to plan the event and stayed to reshape me, her hands guiding fabric over skin I keep hidden from everyone else. Each command pulls me deeper into the role she has chosen, and I hate how much I wait for the next one like it might finally quiet the hunger I have denied since I inherited this place.

In the greenhouse she holds the chemise to my body without speaking, the silk cool against my chest as guests will soon walk the lantern paths outside. I know I should turn away before this goes further, yet my breath catches and I stay exactly where she wants me, wondering how much of myself I will surrender before the party exposes us both.